Summary

Randy Runtsch reflects on the endearing use of pet names for loved ones and pets, emphasizing their role in expressing affection and joy.

Abstract

In a heartwarming narrative, Randy Runtsch reminisces about the use of pet names in his family, from his parents' tender use of "Hon" to his own nicknames for his kitten Muffin and his wife Kazumi. He challenges the notion that pet names are childish, instead arguing that they add fun and affection to relationships. The article is illustrated with personal photographs and anecdotes about how pet names have enriched his life, suggesting that such terms of endearment are a celebration of love and connection.

Opinions

Pet names are a playful and joyful way to express affection, not a childish habit.
The use of pet names can bring a sense of fun and produce joy in adult relationships.
Personal pet names can strengthen the bond between partners and between humans and pets.
The author's parents' use of "Hon" exemplifies the sweet and meaningful nature of pet names in a long-term relationship.
The author believes that the variety of names he calls his cat, Muffin, is a testament to the depth of his affection for her.
The author's son's tactful ignorance of his parents' secret pet name shows an understanding of the special connection it signifies.
The story of the author's father using "Hon" with his caretaker, John, illustrates the enduring power of pet names, even in altered circumstances like dementia.
The author dedicates the story to his late father, highlighting the importance of pet names and relationships in his family's history.

Muffin hides under the footstool. © 2023 Randy Runtsch.

Cats, Pets, Love, Fun, and Humor

Miss Muffin is My Li’l Kit

Can a person get carried away with pet names?

“Hypocorism: to call by pet names.”

I remember reading an article about pet names years ago. The writer said couples who addressed each other with pet names were childlike. He insisted that his readers call their partners only by the name their parents assigned them at birth. I thought his advice was silly back then. But now I know it’s preposterous.

Adults can play like children. Play can be fun and produce joy. Using pet names can be enjoyable, too. For me, they are a way to express affection for important humans and animals in my life.

Muffin likes to climb inside gym bags. © 2023 Randy Runtsch.

Take my kitten Muffin, for example. Since my wife Kazumi and I adopted her two months ago, I have called her at least a dozen names.

In a favorite memory from my mom and dad’s last years together, dad told his sweetheart of seventy years his feelings for her. As I relaxed on their living room sofa, they sat across from each other in easy chairs. While mom read the newspaper, dad looked her way and whispered, “Hon.”

“Hon” was short for “honey” and rhymed with “fun.” It was mom and dad’s pet name for one other. In mixed company, they addressed each other as Margaret and Larry.

Not getting his wife’s attention, dad notched up the volume and repeated, “Hon.” Mom, still did not respond.

Finally, dad raised his voice and blurted, “Hon!” Mom put down the newspaper and looked at him. Then, he batted the lashes of his baby blue eyes at her. When he had her full attention, he announced, “I love you.”

At home, Kazumi and I call each other “honey,” which may be the most common pet name in the United States. We have a secret pet name for each other, too. Sometimes, Kazumi slips and says it when our son is nearby. It makes me blush, but our son has never let on that he heard her.

Muffin paws at critters on Kazumi’s computer screen. © 2023 Randy Runtsch.

When Kazumi calls me “Randy,” I know I’m in trouble. It makes me cringe. Then, she tells me what I did wrong or failed to do.

Pet names may be silly. But they help make life fun.

The following are the pet names I have called our kitten Muffin to date. Another may pop out at any moment.

My Little Muffin
Little Miss Muffin
Miss Muffin
Muffy
Muffin the Puffin
Cutie
Kitty
Little Kitty
Li’l Kitty
Li’l Kit
Honey

Muffin likes to hide in her low-budget playroom. © 2023 Randy Runtsch.

Kazumi keeps it simple. She calls our kitten either Muffin or Buddy.

I have a new nickname for Muffin that I will reveal soon. It’s all about action and adventure. Stay tuned.

Muffin, wearing her new hiking harness, is training to become an outdoor action cat. © 2023 Randy Runtsch.

Several years after dad’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, mom could no longer care for him. So, we moved him into the home of a wonderful couple who cared for senior men. They cared for him with love, and he expressed love and gratitude in return.

One day, I sat with dad on the sofa in the living room of his new home and held his hand. He looked over at his caretaker and friend John, who relaxed in a recliner nearby. Then, dad whispered, “Hon.” John didn’t hear him, so he repeated the word. Still not getting John’s attention, dad blurted, “Hon,” in a loud voice. John turned and said, “Yes, Larry.” Dad responded, “I love you.”

While my parents were not pet people, my dad liked and admired our tuxedo cat, Lucas. I am confident that he and Muffin would have liked each other, too.

My brothers and I moved our mother from Minnesota to Colorado recently. My younger brother and his family live nearby. At age ninety-one, she is in good health and thrives in her independent living apartment.

I dedicate this story to the memory of my father, Lawrence “Larry” Runtsch (1930–2020). He was a loving dad who lived a good life.

Muffin likes to lay with her back against the sofa or a wall. © 2023 Randy Runtsch.